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Bioinspired Universal Flexible Elastomer‐Based Microchannels
Author(s) -
Wu Feng,
Chen Songyue,
Chen Baiyi,
Wang Miao,
Min Lingli,
Alvarenga Jack,
Ju Jie,
Khademhosseini Ali,
Yao Yuxing,
Zhang Yu Shrike,
Aizenberg Joanna,
Hou Xu
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
small
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 3.785
H-Index - 236
eISSN - 1613-6829
pISSN - 1613-6810
DOI - 10.1002/smll.201702170
Subject(s) - microscale chemistry , microfluidics , fluidics , materials science , nanotechnology , elastomer , fabrication , stretchable electronics , wearable technology , wearable computer , electronics , computer science , composite material , electrical engineering , engineering , embedded system , medicine , mathematics education , mathematics , alternative medicine , pathology
Flexible and stretchable microscale fluidic devices have a broad range of potential applications, ranging from electronic wearable devices for convenient digital lifestyle to biomedical devices. However, simple ways to achieve stable flexible and stretchable fluidic microchannels with dynamic liquid transport have been challenging because every application for elastomeric microchannels is restricted by their complex fabrication process and limited material selection. Here, a universal strategy for building microfluidic devices that possess exceptionally stable and stretching properties is shown. The devices exhibit superior mechanical deformability, including high strain (967%) and recovery ability, where applications as both strain sensor and pressure‐flow regulating device are demonstrated. Various microchannels are combined with organic, inorganic, and metallic materials as stable composite microfluidics. Furthermore, with surface chemical modification these stretchable microfluidic devices can also obtain antifouling property to suit for a broad range of industrial and biomedical applications.